Neuschwanstein Castle

History

Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the most beautiful castle built by King Ludwig II between 1869 and 1886 in Germany. Neuschwanstein Castle is a two hour drive south of Munich. The Castle was enthused by the music and operatic works of Richard Wagner such as "Tannhauser" and "Lohengrin". This is evident by the interiors of the many rooms in the castle that are dedicated to Wagner. The third floor largely mirrors Ludwig’s admiration of Wagner’s operas. Also, the Singer’s Hall, on the fourth floor contains characters from Wagner’s operas. Today, Neuschwanstein Castle is a world- famous fairy-tale castle build in Romanesque style.

King Ludwig fancied building a castle that was a facsimile of his childhood dreams, even the positioning is a fairytale one. The castle is beautifully nestled in the Alps in Bavaria with two lakes in the background. Close by are the old castle of Hohenschwangau and the crystal clear Alpsee Lake. You will be amazed by the extremely stunning landscape that surrounds it. No wonder Disney cartoon “Cinderella” was inspired by this castle. The castle has been pictured in several movies as well.

The interiors of the Neuschwanstein Castle are as beautiful as outside. The castle has a beautifully manicured inner garden encircled by a walled courtyard along with an artificial cave. Only 14 rooms were completed in the immense building before the sudden death of Ludwig in 1886. All these rooms have been, undoubtedly, flamboyantly adorned. The church-like Throne Hall was modeled on Byzantine domed architecture, with wall paintings depicting angels. Ironically, there is no throne in the Throne Room, as Ludwig died before it was completely finished.

This Fairytale castle built by King Ludwig II, also known as the Fairytale King, was only opened to public after his death in 1886. Around 1.3 million people cross the gates of the castle annually, with the number of summer visitors being as high as 6,000 per day.

Best time to visit

The best time to go to Munich would be anytime between May and October as the weather is at its best.

Trivia

Did you know that the Neuschwanstein Castle was the inspiration for Disneyland's Sleeping Beauty castle?
Interestingly, the new Seven Wonders of the World, Neuschwanstein, which we see today, was not designed by an architect. It was Christian Jank, a theatrical set designer and not an architect who designed of the castle!

For a mere €5, one can ride up thehill to the castle in a horse-drawn carriage, just like they did in the days of yore.

Timing

The Neuschwanstein Castle is open to public daily between 9.00am and 6.00 pm during the months of April- September. In the months of October- March the timings shift between 10.00am and 4.00pm. The castle is only closed on few days in the month of December (24, 25, and 31) and on January 1.